Manchester United face major competition for one of their top January transfer targets after he entered talks with a rival club, while a former academy star has had his loan stint cut short
Conor Gallagher of Atletico de Madrid reacts during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Atletico de Madrid and Real Oviedo at Riyadh Air Metropolitano
Aston Villa are in talks to sign Atletico Madrid's Conor Gallagher, who has been strongly linked with Manchester United(Image: Angel Martinez, Getty Images)
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The Januarytransfer window could be a turning point for Manchester United following a dismal New Year period. The departure of Ruben Amorim and the club's elimination from another cup competition, leaving them without a win in four matches, have added to the gloom.
Former United forward Danny Welbeck was instrumental in his old club's exit from the FA Cup fourth round on Sunday. Emerging talent Shea Lacey was sent off in a disappointing 2-1 home loss, which saw Welbeck return to haunt his former team.
The sombre mood at Old Trafford risks lingering for the rest of the month, with United still lacking a definitive solution in the managerial role. examines the latest rumours surrounding the club as they seek to bolster their squad during a critical period in their campaign.
Aston Villa move ahead in Gallagher chase
One of the key areas that requires strengthening at Old Trafford before the end of the month is central midfield. Atletico Madrid's Conor Gallagher seemed an obvious target for this transfer window for multiple reasons.
The England international is struggling for playing time after falling down the pecking order in Madrid, and he's reportedly available for a reduced fee. However, The Times has reported Aston Villa are currently leading the race for his signature after entering negotiations.
Unai Emery's team are reportedly considering a loan deal for the ex-Chelsea and Crystal Palace star. However, no agreement has been reached yet, with Atletico supposedly insisting any deal should include a guaranteed £35million purchase option.
Conor Gallagher of Atletico de Madrid looks on prior the game the LaLiga EA Sports match between Atletico de Madrid and Levante UD at Riyadh Air Metropolitano
Gallagher has fallen down the pecking order at Atletico Madrid and is now in talks over a Premier League comeback(Image: Diego Souto/Getty Images)
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This could provide an opportunity for United to express their interest in the player. They might need to agree to these terms or offer a higher upfront payment, but the good news is the door isn't entirely closed yet.
At £35m, 25-year-old Gallagher could still be a significant bargain in today's market and would fill a major gap in midfield. Kobbie Mainoo is still hoping to rejoin the team after being sidelined under Amorim, while Manuel Ugarte is rumoured to be leaving Old Trafford.
There's also the potential risk of captain Bruno Fernandes departing soon following consecutive transfer windows where he was targeted by clubs in Saudi Arabia. However, Villa can offer Champions League football and are in contention for a Premier League title challenge, something United can only aspire to at the moment.
Wheatley recalled from Northampton loan
One player who is definitely heading to Carrington is Ethan Wheatley. For now, at least, after United decided to end the forward's loan spell at Northampton Town early.
The decision is thought to be purely tactical on United's part as they aim to provide the 19-year-old with the best possible chance to excel. It's evident Wheatley was held in high regard at Sixfields after Cobblers boss Kevin Nolan expressed his disappointment with United's choice.
Northampton Town's Ethan Wheatley
Ethan Wheatley impressed on loan at Northampton Town prior to being recalled(Image: Cat Goryn/Shutterstock)
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"We are disappointed Ethan has been recalled but we are proud of the work we have done with him and believe he leaves us a far better player than he arrived," said the Bolton legend. "We thank Manchester United for loaning Ethan to us and wish him well for his future career."
United regularly include break clauses in their youngsters' contracts for exactly this reason. Instead of allowing the player to continue in League One, they may now seek a development opportunity for the striker at a higher level.
Wheatley, who signed a new contract at United last year, netted three goals and provided four assists in 25 appearances for Northampton across all competitions. Stephen Torpey is currently managing loans at Carrington after Jonny Evans, who is presently serving on Darren Fletcher's backroom staff, vacated his role as head of loans and pathways.